Jerusalem, Franken, California: 5 things that happened Wednesday

by ELEANOR MUELLER, Sinclair Broadcast Group

A wildfire burns along the 101 Freeway Tuesday, Dec. 5, 2017, in Ventura, Calif. Raked by ferocious Santa Ana winds, explosive wildfires northwest of Los Angeles and in the city's foothills burned a psychiatric hospital and scores of homes and other structures Tuesday and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of people. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong)

Looking to get caught up on the news, fast? Here are five things that happened Wednesday, covered by the Sinclair stations you trust every day.

1. Trump recognizes Jerusalem as Israeli capital

Acting against decades of policy by Republican and Democratic administrations, President Donald Trump declared the U.S. would recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, making peace negotiations in the area much more difficult.

2. Sen. Al Franken faces resignation calls

As more and more Democrats call for his resignation following allegations of sexual misconduct, Sen. Al Franken of Minnesota is expected to step down from his position.

3. In California, wildfires continue to rage

More than 200,000 were forced to flee as wind-driven wildfires ate through Southern California, destroying hundreds of homes and other structures.

4. Time Magazine features 'The Silence Breakers'

Time Magazine honored "The Silence Breakers" -- women who spoke out against sexual assault -- as its "Person of the Year."

5. Washington state debates a third gender

Washington State considered putting a third gender on its birth certificates. The historic move would give parents the option to identify their child as neither male nor female.